Arsenal signing Thomas Partey shows ambition to win silverware, says Runar Alex Runarsson

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Joe Krishnan13 October 2020

Runar Alex Runarsson has hailed Arsenal's signing of Thomas Partey, believing it demonstrates the club's ambition to challenge for silverware again.

The Ghanaian arrived in a £45m deal on transfer deadline day, the biggest acquisition by any team to end months of speculation.

The 27-year-old is thought to be the final piece in Mikel Arteta's plan after signing Gabriel Magalhaes and tying down Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to a new contract.

And Runarsson, a new signing at the Emirates Stadium after joining from Dijon, was pleased to see his new club land their top target as a statement to other clubs competing for honours.

"I was so excited because it shows everybody the ambition that the club has: that we want to go back to compete for the Premier League and Champions League," Runarsson told Goal.

Bringing in Thomas Partey shows Arsenal mean business, according to Runarsson  Photo: Getty Images
Getty Images

"We want to take part in all the major competitions, and not just take part but win.

"To sign Thomas, it just shows the world what we are all about."

The Icelandic goalkeeper arrived at the club in September as second-choice to replace Emiliano Martinez, who signed for Aston Villa.

And the 25-year-old is determined to work as hard as Martinez did to prove he is worthy of a place in the team.

Runarsson says he will work tirelessly to earn a place in the team  Photo: Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Arsenal FC via Getty Images

"I read an interview with him a couple of days ago and he said he came in as the ninth-choice goalkeeper, but he worked his a*** off to become the first-choice at Arsenal after Leno's injury," he says.

"Then, he makes a brilliant move to Aston Villa for £20m. That should inspire everyone, not just me.

"That's my plan: to work my a*** off, enjoy every minute of it and get as many games as possible."

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